tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69237831342971205822016-10-01T09:46:24.355-10:00Spirit ConnectionsA somewhat-regular sharing of the dialogue that God and I are having through Scripture, as pastor of Palmdale UMC (http://www.pumchurch.com/).
Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.comBlogger617125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-81927772445014979192016-02-01T08:57:00.002-10:002016-02-01T08:57:33.876-10:00GOD IS ABLE!<div style="text-align: center;"><i>"No distrust made (Abraham) waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Romans 4:20-21) </i></div><br />God called Abraham at age 75 to begin a journey that would end not only in a new physical location (far from his hometown), but also as the father of a "great nation."&nbsp; He was also childless at this time, by the way.&nbsp; It took 25 years for that promise to be fulfilled.&nbsp; TWENTY-FIVE YEARS!&nbsp; Wow. 25 might not seem like too long when you're young... but Abe was 75 already!&nbsp; Genesis records a number of twists &amp; turns in his storyline along the way.&nbsp; But Abraham made it.&nbsp; He persevered!&nbsp; And Paul, when he wrote the letter to the church in Rome, lifted Abraham up as an example of faith for us.<br /><br />Paul shows us how Abraham didn't waver in his trust of God.&nbsp; He gave glory to God, being "fully convinced" that God was able to do what he had promised.&nbsp; Paul doesn't say Abraham thought it was actually possible for him to become the father of a great nation (at age 75+!)... he said that Abraham believed GOD WAS ABLE to do it.&nbsp; It's a HUGE difference.<br /><br />Palmdale UMC has property to eventually build on.&nbsp; 15 acres worth!&nbsp; We still owe ~$700K on just the land. Building seems <i>light years</i> away right now.&nbsp; But is God able to see this project through to completion?&nbsp; ABSOLUTELY!&nbsp; That's where I need to be focusing my energy and prayers.&nbsp; Thanks Abraham.&nbsp; Thanks Paul.&nbsp; Thanks God!<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-57816978573991400432016-02-01T08:49:00.002-10:002016-02-01T08:49:34.652-10:00Mixed Emotions<div style="text-align: center;">[From January 30, 2016]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"So they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy..."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Matthew 28:8) </i></div><br />On that very first Easter morning, two women came to Jesus' tomb expecting to find a body.&nbsp; It wasn't there.&nbsp; Instead, they found an angel who told them two things: 1) "Don't be afraid!", 2) "Go tell the disciples that Jesus is risen, and he will meet you in Galilee!"&nbsp; Matthew tells us that they left "with fear and great joy."&nbsp; So they were excited, but also afraid.&nbsp; Interesting that they'd have these seemingly opposite emotions.&nbsp; We often feel like we need to be 100% behind something to support it, don't we?&nbsp; This may provide another model for us.<br /><br />We have a property we've purchased here at Palmdale United Methodist Church.&nbsp; 15 acres.&nbsp; We still owe about $700K on that loan.&nbsp; We can't start building anything on it until we pay that off first.&nbsp; I'm new to the church.&nbsp; It wasn't my vision to buy the land.&nbsp; But it is exciting to think about what could become of it!&nbsp; Then again, $700K is a LOT of money.&nbsp; I'm honestly a bit worried about how we'll get all that money.&nbsp; And yet, I'm excited about the possibility.&nbsp; Could it be that Jesus will meet me "in Galilee" (ie. somewhere in this in-between set of feelings and emotions I have?)&nbsp; Maybe I don't have to be 100% sure of where the funding will come from before I set out in faith!??!<br /><br />PRAYER: "Fear and great joy."&nbsp; I definitely have that, Lord!&nbsp; Thank you for calling me to Palmdale UMC.&nbsp; It's definitely outside my comfort zone when it comes to raising this kind of money.&nbsp; But with you, all things are possible.&nbsp; So shepherd me as I walk with you through this.&nbsp; Don't let my fear overtake your call on my life and the life of this church.&nbsp; AMEN.<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-89235357857310334642016-02-01T08:41:00.000-10:002016-02-01T08:41:11.369-10:00That's all?!?<div style="text-align: center;">[From January 29, 2016]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Then one of the twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to he chief priests and said, 'What will you give me if I betray him to you?' They paid him 30 pieces of silver.&nbsp; And from that moment, he began to look for an opportunity to betray him."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Matthew 26:14-16) </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It was Dante who conjectured of all the regions of hell, the one at the deepest core would be reserved for Judas Iscariot - the betrayer of Jesus.&nbsp; Indeed, Judas has quite a black mark on his name because of his actions during Jesus' final week on earth.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Scripture (the book of John) tells us that Judas was the treasurer of the disciples.&nbsp; He handled the money.&nbsp; We don't know if they had much money between them.&nbsp; Did they pool their savings when they started?&nbsp; Did they get donations along the way?&nbsp; Were there wealthy benefactors?&nbsp; We're not sure.&nbsp; But Judas must have been good with finances &amp; numbers.&nbsp; Is it surprising, then, to discover that it was money that became his downfall (or at least his temptation)?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">30 pieces of silver.&nbsp; It was worth about 120 denarii.&nbsp; A denarius was a day's wage.&nbsp; So this was 1/3 a year's salary.&nbsp; Did Judas negotiate that figure or just take their first offer?&nbsp; Was he that desperate for money, or just disillusioned with Jesus (or as his role as a disciple?)?&nbsp; One third of a year's salary doesn't seem like it's that much, actually.&nbsp; Especially for something as big as betraying the Savior of the World!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've heard a pastor once say that whatever our strength is - whatever we're best at or most interested in or excel around - THAT has the potential of becoming our downfall.&nbsp; Like Judas and money.&nbsp; As I reread this story today, I wondered... what would I be most likely to betray Jesus over?&nbsp; I don't think it would be money (though the $1.5B Powerball Lottery drawing earlier this month started me fantasizing about acquiring incredible wealth).&nbsp; Would it be fame &amp; celebrity?&nbsp; Though I like to be liked (who doesn't?!) I've never really sought to move in those circles.&nbsp; Sex seems to be another lure that many pastors succumb to.&nbsp; Maybe it's because we're in the business of loving others &amp; empathizing with folks... is sexual indiscretions this taken to the extreme?&nbsp; Actually, LOTS of people succumb to this.&nbsp; That's no excuse, though.&nbsp; I pray that my marriage with Jody and our love for each other will keep me vigilant in this department.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I don't know what I might betray Jesus for.&nbsp; Hopefully nothing.&nbsp; But if one of Jesus' closest friends could do it, I'm not immune.&nbsp; How tragic that Judas gave him up for a mere 30 pieces of silver... and then once he got it, realized his mistake.&nbsp; He never even "enjoyed" the "reward."&nbsp; (Which tells me that the lure of temptation rarely satisfies.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Lord, I want to enjoy you, not temptation.&nbsp; Keep me loyal and faithful.&nbsp; AMEN.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-9289393236158770932016-02-01T08:15:00.002-10:002016-02-01T08:15:14.770-10:00Let it go.<div style="text-align: center;">[From January 25, 2016]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Then the disciples approached and said to him, 'Do you know that the Pharisees took offense when they heard what you said?'&nbsp; Jesus answered, 'Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted.&nbsp; Let them alone; they are the blind guides of the blind...'"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Matthew 15:12-14a) </i></div><br />The religious leaders and Jesus often didn't get along.&nbsp; Usually, it was because of something Jesus said that offended them.&nbsp; They also would try to trip Jesus up with questions and rhetoric, but usually he rebuffed their attempts to discredit them.&nbsp; Which made them even more upset.<br /><br />One time, Jesus' disciples noticed this exchange, and told Jesus how offended the religious leaders were.&nbsp; I can relate.&nbsp; I was raised to be polite and respectful of others.&nbsp; I tend to avoid direct confrontations with people who I have a difference of opinion.&nbsp; But Jesus wasn't worried.&nbsp; He told the disciples to leave them alone.&nbsp; "Every plant my heavenly Father hasn't planted will be uprooted."<br /><br />That's really wise advice.&nbsp; Don't kowtow to the feelings and opinions of those in power.&nbsp; Don't worry about offending when speaking the truth.&nbsp; If it's not of God, it won't last... it won't be of eternal value.&nbsp; AND YET... I must be careful that I'm being "planted by God," so I won't be uprooted, myself!&nbsp; I can't assume that just because I'm a pastor (or even a Christian) that all of my actions/thoughts/feelings are of God.&nbsp; May God help prune from me that which is not planted by him!Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-89415761863757922722016-02-01T08:01:00.003-10:002016-02-01T08:01:42.644-10:00A blessed dichotomy<div style="text-align: center;">[From January 19, 2016]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"We want you to know, brothers and sisters, about the grace of God that has been granted to the churches of Macedonia; for during a severe ordeal of affliction, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have over flowed in a wealth of generosity on their part."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(2 Corinthians 8:1-2) </i></div><br />People <u>love</u> to be around those who are generous.&nbsp; Initially, I'd venture, it's because we all like to be on the receiving end of generosity.&nbsp; Who doesn't?!?&nbsp; But a generous spirit is contagious... captivating... inspiring!&nbsp; When we spend significant time around generous people, we can't help but want to be generous, too.<br /><br />The apostle Paul lived a life of generosity.&nbsp; He reflected the life of Jesus, whose very nature embodied generosity.&nbsp; In his second letter to the church in Corinth, Paul lifted up the church in Macedonia as another example of a generous lifestyle.&nbsp; Though he doesn't give details, he acknowledges they've been through a tough time... a "severe ordeal of affliction."&nbsp; And though they had little financially, they responded generously and with joy!<br /><br />The three times I've been to the Philippines, I've been struck by this same dichotomy: extreme poverty (in some areas) surpassed only by their extreme joy... and generosity!&nbsp; They've taught me so much about what it means to be a Christian!&nbsp; I want to live into their example of faithfulness.&nbsp; And I want to help others live into that blessed dichotomy, too.<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-63897200503640413732016-02-01T07:56:00.002-10:002016-02-01T07:56:32.035-10:00For Building Up<div style="text-align: center;">[From January 15, 2016]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"So with yourselves; since you are eager for spiritual gifts, strive to excel in them for building up the church."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(1 Corinthians 14:12) </i></div><br /><br />I was watching a short video on Facebook yesterday.&nbsp; Steve Harvey was talking to the audience after filming an episode of FAMILY FEUD.&nbsp; He was encouraging them to find whatever "gift" God has blessed them with ("everyone has been given something they excel in by God!"), and dare to "jump."&nbsp; Dare to be bold, take a risk, and use that gift to the fullest.&nbsp; Don't sit on it.<br /><br />The apostle Paul, in his letter to the church in Corinth, is talking about God's giftings, too.&nbsp; "Pursue love and strive for the spiritual gifts," he writes in 14:1.&nbsp; He then lays out the difference between speaking in tongues (a "just you and God" moment) and prophesy (bringing an encouraging word to others).&nbsp; Midway through the chapter he calls them to use their gifts "for building up the church."<br /><br />We're all good at something.&nbsp; It may not be a "traditional" gift that most think about in regards to church (preaching, teaching, serving, etc.).&nbsp; But what a focus: do whatever you do well, in order to build up others (ie. the church).&nbsp; How can I help my congregation re-envision how they can be a blessing to others in the unique ways God has wired them?&nbsp; That's my call as a pastor.&nbsp; Lord, help me do this!&nbsp; Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-12119854880114292142016-02-01T07:50:00.000-10:002016-02-01T07:50:01.990-10:00Mysteries!<div style="text-align: center;">[From January 11, 2016]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and Stewards of God's mysteries."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(1 Corinthians 4:1) </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">"So besides preach, what else do you do as a pastor?"&nbsp; It's a question I'm asked from time to time.&nbsp; (Nothing like having a job that only requires you to work a couple of hours on Sunday morning, right?!?!)&nbsp; Well, there's prepping for the sermon; worship planning; pastoral care &amp; administration; committee and special project work; prayer; leadership development; stewardship &amp; discipleship planning; staff oversight... just to name a few of the things I do besides preach.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But Paul lists another item in the job description of pastoral leaders: "servants of Christ and stewards of God's mysteries."&nbsp; The servants of Christ title isn't new.&nbsp; Jesus talked frequently about a life of servanthood.&nbsp; But the second part surprised me: <b>stewards of God's mysteries.</b>&nbsp; Indeed, God works in mysterious ways!&nbsp; And God's ways are not our ways.&nbsp; Whether it's the mystery of Holy Communion, the power of baptism, the incomprehensible gift of grace (or many other aspects of God's love and nature), as a pastor I'm to "steward" this.&nbsp; To care for it.&nbsp; Share it.&nbsp; Protect it.&nbsp; Highlight it.&nbsp; I'm to make sure others in my care are <i><b>f</b><b>ully aware of and experiencing</b></i> God's mysteries.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It all starts with scripture.&nbsp; God continues to speak through words penned by humans (inspired by God, of course) written thousands of years ago.&nbsp; Wow.&nbsp; May I continue to be a good steward of that.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-23973866372643519962016-02-01T07:43:00.003-10:002016-02-01T07:43:53.936-10:00Pack snacks.<div style="text-align: center;">[From January 4, 2016]</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"On the following day, when they came from Bethany, (Jesus) was hungry.&nbsp; Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see whether perhaps he would find anything on it.&nbsp; When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs.&nbsp; He said to it, 'May no one ever eat fruit from you again!' And his disciples heard it."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Luke 11:12-14) </i></div><br />Weird story here.<br /><br />Jesus is in Jerusalem.&nbsp; It's his final week of life.&nbsp; He knows where this is leading.&nbsp; He's going to have to confront the religious leaders.&nbsp; They'll be his demise.&nbsp; He's entered the city to great fanfare the day before... but now the "messy part" begins.&nbsp; On the morning of day two in the city, on his way in, he passes a fig tree.&nbsp; He's hungry (must've forgot to grab breakfast before he left for the day).&nbsp; But there aren't any figs on the tree.&nbsp; Bummer, right?!?&nbsp; But then he curses the tree (note: when they pass this same tree the following day, it's withered!).&nbsp; But here's the kicker.&nbsp; Luke tells us "it was not the season for figs."<br /><br />So why did Jesus get so upset?&nbsp; Surely he knew it wasn't "FIG SEASON" (cue Bugs Bunny vs. Elmer Fudd in the classic "Wabbit Season/Duck Season" bit!).&nbsp; Did Jesus expect the laws of nature to bend to his will?&nbsp; Or is this merely an example of Jesus' humanity?&nbsp; We all get hungry...and frustrated... at times.&nbsp; <br /><br />Now, granted, in verses 20-24, Luke uses the withered tree as an opportunity for Jesus to teach on the power of faith and prayer.&nbsp; So maybe THAT was the primary reason for this incident.&nbsp; But still, it's a curious story, isn't it?<br /><br />It's not a very spiritual interpretation, but I think I'm going with the humanity of Jesus here.&nbsp; We all get frustrated, even Jesus!&nbsp; (This could also be the makings of a first-century SNICKERS commercial - 'You're not yourself, Jesus, when you're hungry!')&nbsp; Maybe this is a call to patience... when those around me are frustrated and disappointed, don't judge them too harshly.&nbsp; Even Jesus had a few less-than-stellar moments.&nbsp; It happens to the best of us.&nbsp; Persevere.&nbsp; Have grace for others.&nbsp; (And pack snacks, next time, Jesus!)Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-83882945616336579592016-02-01T07:36:00.001-10:002016-02-01T07:36:12.386-10:00Perspective<div style="text-align: center;">[From December 28, 2015]</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"And so it was that all were brought safely to land."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Acts 27:44b) </i></div><br />One sentence.&nbsp; A simple comment.&nbsp; Actually, a statement.&nbsp; The kind we make all the time.&nbsp; And yet, filled with such depth of faith.&nbsp; Paul is being transported form Caesarea to Rome.&nbsp; That seemingly simple statement sounds so nonchalant.&nbsp; And yet the reality is incredible.<br /><br />Fourteen weeks at sea.&nbsp; Two ships.&nbsp; Numerous storms.&nbsp; Jettisoning cargo.&nbsp; Fear of death.&nbsp; Potential escape thwarted.&nbsp; Almost killed by the guards.&nbsp; Their own "last supper" type meal.&nbsp; Shipwrecked.&nbsp; Swimming to shore.&nbsp; Incredible journey!&nbsp; It's the stuff entire movies are made of.&nbsp; And Paul concludes by saying, "And so it was that all were brought safely to land."&nbsp; Wow.&nbsp; What a perspective!<br /><br />If you would have asked anyone on that ship with Paul, at various stages of their journey, how they were feeling or what was taking place, I'm guessing they would NOT have said, "We're moving toward safety."&nbsp; Nope.&nbsp; Panic... fear... uncertainty... discouragement, yet.&nbsp; But moving towards safety? Not in the least.<br /><br />But Paul had a different perspective.&nbsp; Granted, Acts was penned some time AFTER the events took place.&nbsp; So time helped grant him some wisdom.&nbsp; Nonetheless, this speaks volumes to me.&nbsp; Oftentimes when I'm in the midst of a challenging or difficult situation, I focus on the negative (don't we all?).&nbsp; Or at least on the obstacles in my way.&nbsp; But this challenged me to not be so quick to rush to judgment.&nbsp; Paul looked at the bigger picture: GOD WAS BRINGING THEM TO SAFETY!&nbsp; It didn't look like that most of the stages along the way. But it was!<br /><br />Sometimes we need to take a step back from the situation we're in and ask the question: What is God doing through all of this?&nbsp; We need a new perspective.&nbsp; A holy vision. Maybe we can't see it "in the moment."&nbsp; But if we withhold judgment, we might just be surprised at what we find.<br /><br />PRAYER: Lord, give me a bigger vision.&nbsp; Help me to see a fraction of how You see what I'm going through.&nbsp; Keep me from rushing quickly to judgment.&nbsp; Instead, let me put my hope and trust in You.&nbsp; For I know that You are working for good in my life and in the world!&nbsp; AMEN.Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-4404862846732245742016-02-01T07:28:00.001-10:002016-02-01T07:28:56.249-10:00{less than}<div style="text-align: center;">[From December 24, 2015]</div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Know then that God exacts of you less than your guilt deserves."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Job 11:6b) </i></div><br />There's an interesting saying, "With friends like that, who needs enemies!"&nbsp; Job can relate.&nbsp; The poor guy has had his life turned upside down.&nbsp; For no apparent reason, Job has lost his property, possessions, children, and health.&nbsp; He was faithful, upright, and kind.&nbsp; But calamity and misfortune struck nonetheless.&nbsp; Now he's having a hard time figuring out why.<br /><br />One of the prevailing notions "back in the day" (ie. biblical times!) was if misfortune befell you, it must be God punishing you for your sin.&nbsp; Job has 3 "friends" come over to commiserate with him.&nbsp; Each of them spouts the prevailing wisdom: "What did you do to deserve this, Job?!?!"&nbsp; Friend #3 (Zophar) is the harshest.&nbsp; It was clear to him that Job was a sinner (aren't we all!).&nbsp; "Just confess it and everything will be right!" he chides Job.&nbsp; In fact, Zophar goes so far as to say, <b>"Know that God exacts of you less than you guilt deserves!"</b>&nbsp; Meaning, be happy... you could have had it much, much worse!<br /><br />Some (many?) people still have Zophar's mindset.&nbsp; If bad things are happening, it's God's punishment.&nbsp; In the end, the book of Job leaves us with the message that somethings we'll just never understand.&nbsp; Stuff happens.&nbsp; Often without rhyme or reason.&nbsp; But Zophar's statement is true: God does exact less than our guilt deserves.&nbsp; That's where Jesus comes in.&nbsp; He took our guilt away.&nbsp; Merry Christmas!Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-73669186152441512322016-02-01T07:18:00.001-10:002016-02-01T07:18:58.614-10:00"Awake!"<div style="text-align: center;">[From December 21, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make melody.&nbsp; Awake, my soul!"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Psalm 108:1) </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Most of us "younger generation" folk use our cell phones as alarm clocks these days.&nbsp; We fear no power outages in the night... as long as our phones have enough charge, our bodies will wake up.&nbsp; But as I was reading Psalm 108 today, I was reminded of another "awakening" that we need (which no cell phone can remedy): OUR SOULS!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">"Awake, my soul!" says the Psalmist.&nbsp; Wow!&nbsp; I wonder what he recognized about himself when his soul wasn't "awake"?&nbsp; It may have had nothing to do with feeling tired, sluggish, or lethargic at all.&nbsp; Maybe he lost his passion... his sense of awe and wonder?&nbsp; Maybe the sunrise or sunset no longer evoked something within him?&nbsp; Maybe he wasn't touched by music... or by a child's laugh?&nbsp; Maybe art wasn't interesting to him?&nbsp; Maybe he wasn't drawn to conversation with the ones he loved?&nbsp; Maybe when someone asked him how he was doing, he simply responded with, "fine"?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And then he knew that wasn't how God wired us.&nbsp; Thus, the call/command: "AWAKE, MY SOUL!"&nbsp; What a great cry whenever our daily alarm goes off!&nbsp; Awake, indeed!</div>Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-29485430595924447912016-01-19T06:27:00.001-10:002016-01-19T06:27:28.947-10:00The power of food<div style="text-align: center;">[From December 15, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of the people."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Acts 2:46-47a) </i></div><br />The early church did church before they had a church... building, that is.&nbsp; After the day of Pentecost (aka The Birthday of the Church!), the followers of Jesus began spreading like wildfire!&nbsp; The book of Acts chronicles their endeavors.<br /><br />What's interesting is that they didn't engage in some multi-faceted "outreach program."&nbsp; They simply lived into the joy that comes from a relationship with Jesus.&nbsp; They:<br /><ol><li>Gathered for worship...</li><li>Ate their meals together in each others' homes (also remembering Jesus' last supper with them)...</li><li>Were generous and shared their resources with those in need...</li></ol>Evidently, this was contagious.&nbsp; People were drawn to this generosity, joy, and willingness to share.<br /><br />Today people freak out hearing that the early church "sold their possessions and distributed the proceeds to all in need."&nbsp; We're probably way too attached to our stuff, to be honest.&nbsp; But we can still be generous in so many other ways - including "eating with glad and generous hearts."&nbsp; Pray before meals.&nbsp; Buy a friend lunch.&nbsp; Truly enjoy the food you're eating.&nbsp; And eat with others.&nbsp; Often.&nbsp; Let your joy be evident (and contagious).&nbsp; It sounds like a small thing... but it can make a big difference in someone else's life.&nbsp; There is power in food.Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-11983433501693311072016-01-15T10:14:00.000-10:002016-01-15T10:14:04.273-10:00The First Sermon?<div style="text-align: center;">[From December 14, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Nehemiah 8:12) </i></div><br />What do you do when a group of people (in this case, about 50K!) have been "away" from God for an extended period of time and come back "home"?&nbsp; The Israelites who returned from Babylonian captivity faced just that. Most had grown up in Babylon and only heard stories (from parents and grandparents) about he worship life in Israel.&nbsp; Now they were home.<br /><br />After Ezra &amp; Nehemiah helped rebuild the temple, it's interesting that they gathered the people in a large square outside the temple.&nbsp; Instead of offering sacrifices and reciting prayers (which happened inside the temple), they stared a new practice: SCRIPTURE READING!&nbsp; Ezra brought "the book of the Law" (probably the Torah: Genesis to Deuteronomy) and read it out loud to the people.&nbsp; The people stood to hear it (out of reverence &amp; respect?).&nbsp; The Levites (13 specifically named) "helped the people to understand the law" as it was read (sermons?).&nbsp; And then the leaders sent the people home with instructions to go with joy, not sorrow.&nbsp; And the author tells us the people went home to celebrate and rejoice "because they had understood the words that were declared to them."<br /><br />This is the goal of every preacher, isn't it?&nbsp; To lift up a passage of scripture... to help people interpret &amp; understand it... and then to send them home with an action plan (some way the passage will impact their life).&nbsp; All the while, they "understood the words that were declared to them."<br /><br />The challenge, of course, is to keep the interpretation focused &amp; clear... not to bit off more than folks can chew on in one setting (or more than I can possibly cover in one sermon!).&nbsp; But when this happens well, then God's transformation has the best chance to take hold.<br /><br />PRAYER: Thank you, God, for reminding me in this story just how powerful reading the Scriptures can be to us.&nbsp; Continue to help em refine my "interpretation" of passages as I preach, so others can leave worship having understood what was read.&nbsp; AMEN.<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-60663481718065774852016-01-11T06:14:00.001-10:002016-01-15T09:38:14.238-10:00Resting<div style="text-align: center;">[From Dec. 10, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"O LORD, my heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.&nbsp; but I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; my soul is like the weaned child that is with me.&nbsp; O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time on and forevermore."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Psalm 131)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's the season of Advent - the month of preparation for Christmas.&nbsp; I'm preaching a sermon series on Mary and her perspective of the gift of Jesus.&nbsp; So I've been thinking about moms and babies a lot.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I first "discovered" Psalm 131 in seminary.&nbsp; During mid-terms and finals, we were given this psalm as a devotional text.&nbsp; Wow!&nbsp; "Not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me."&nbsp; Instead: calm and quiet your soul.&nbsp; Great advice.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">But it's the visual image that packs the biggest punch here: a weaned child and its mother.&nbsp; Not a nursing child (always demanding to be fed!).&nbsp; But a contented child.&nbsp; A child who can just sit with its mother and be together.&nbsp; Resting.&nbsp; Trusting.&nbsp; Calm.&nbsp; Content.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Mary had seen/heard "great &amp; marvelous" things about her baby Jesus.&nbsp; It could have been overwhelming.&nbsp; But then there were times (especially after he was weaned) that she simply held him in her arms and enjoyed the moment.&nbsp; No future thoughts, endeavors or actions.&nbsp; Just content to be together.&nbsp; That's what the Psalmist is calling us to experience, too.&nbsp; How long has it been since you've rested in the LORD... without asking/wanting/demanding anything?&nbsp; (Me too.)</div><br /><br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-82458555159090132602015-12-10T09:27:00.001-10:002015-12-10T09:27:49.596-10:00For such a time as this...<div style="text-align: center;">[From December 7, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Mordecai told them to reply to Esther, 'Do not think that in the king's palace you will escape any more than all the other Jews.&nbsp; For if you keep silence at such a time as this, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another quarter, but you and your father's family will perish.&nbsp; Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this.'"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Esther 4:13-14) </i></div><br />I <u>love</u> the story of Esther.&nbsp; It's got everything you'd want in a gripping tale: passion, debauchery, a beloved heroine, an evil villain, intrigue &amp; drama, plus a surprising twist at the end!&nbsp; It's also one of the only books in the Bible where God is never specifically mentioned or referenced.<br /><br />In chapter 4, Esther has just been informed about the plot against her and her fellow Jews by the evil Haman.&nbsp; Her cousin (but more like an uncle) Mordecai has sent word, but Ether has replied saying that her hands are, unfortunately, tied... and she can't do anything about it.&nbsp; Then Mordecai sends one more response: "Help will come.&nbsp; If not from you, from somewhere else.&nbsp; But maybe you've been put in this position of influence for such a time as this!?!"<br /><br />It's that last portion of Mordecai's speech that hit me (again! It always does when I read this!).&nbsp; He impressed upon Ether that help will come... from somewhere (I see this as one of the testimonies to God's protection &amp; provision, without specifically mentioning God)... but it could be that she came to her position of power &amp; influence "for just such a time as this."<br /><br />Not many of us can claim that we were a queen (or king) on our resume.&nbsp; But ALL of us are in some kind of position of influence - if even just in our own families.&nbsp; And there are moments in our lives - defining moments - where we have opportunities to make significant decisions.&nbsp; it may feel overwhelming at the time, but it could be that God has put us in that position "for just such a time as this."<br /><br />I don't know where my ministry at Palmdale UMC will go.&nbsp; I just got here 5 months ago.&nbsp; But I can't help but feel like I'm exactly where God needs me to be.&nbsp; And who knows, maybe I'm called to lead the wonderful people of PUMC for just such a time as this?!?&nbsp; A time when we've purchased land, but are in the in-between time of paying it off and building for our future.&nbsp; A time when we average about 340 in worship, but have close to 700+ constituents.&nbsp; A time when our Preschool is almost at capacity, and we've begun working with Christ Our Savior UMC in Quartz Hill for a new afterschool program!&nbsp; I'm definitely excited to be here - for just such a time as this.<br /><br />How has God brought you to a position of influence, for just such a time as this?!?<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-45443052603922439662015-12-04T07:55:00.000-10:002015-12-04T07:55:21.484-10:00WANTS vs. NEEDS<div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Then Jesus said, 'There was a man who had two sons.&nbsp; The younger of them said to his father, "Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me."&nbsp; So he divided his property between them.'"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Luke 15:11-12) </i></div><br />The story of the Prodigal Son is perhaps the most famous of all of Jesus' parables.&nbsp; It starts with the WANTS of a son.&nbsp; He wanted his inheritance.&nbsp; Only, Dad wasn't dead yet.&nbsp; Minor details, right?!?&nbsp; The son asked his dad for it anyway (the equivalent of saying back then, "Dad, I wish you were dead!").&nbsp; He knew what he wanted: cash, freedom, opportunity!&nbsp; And as soon as he got it, he was gone.<br /><br />Jesus tells us the son took his wad of bills and traveled to "a distant country, where he squandered his property in dissolute living."&nbsp; I think Jesus was intentionally vague with the details - so we are free to fill in the blanks with the things WE think we'd secretly want to be doing, if we had that kind of unrestrained freedom!<br /><br />We don't know how long this went on.&nbsp; Days?&nbsp; Weeks?&nbsp; Months?&nbsp; Years?&nbsp; Decades?&nbsp; Jesus simply informs us that "when he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need."<br /><br />This is where the story hit me today.&nbsp; It's at this point that the son transitions from focusing on his WANTS... and moves to his NEEDS.&nbsp; He needed shelter, food, water, yes... but even more he probably needed the love, security, and grace that came from his family.&nbsp; He has the beginnings of this understanding... he devises a plan to return home and talk Dad into hiring him on as a servant.&nbsp; No grandiose ideas of sonship... just the practical necessity of fulfilling his NEEDS.<br /><br />But God... I mean, the Father... doesn't operate that way.&nbsp; When the son returned home, his Father swept him up in an envelope of grace and restoration.&nbsp; He returned to what he had <u>always</u> had before he left, just never realized!<br /><br />It's easy during the month of December to focus on our WANTS.&nbsp; We're making our lists and checking them twice.&nbsp; But maybe instead of thinking about those WANTS, we should prayerfully discern what our NEEDS truly are (or at least ask God for whatever they might be!).&nbsp; That's where God wants to provide for us.<br /><br />May you (and I!) discover this timeless truth before we wander off to some "distant country."&nbsp; AMEN.Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-77319250726814556222015-12-04T07:47:00.001-10:002015-12-04T07:47:11.585-10:00Like a parents' sorrow...<div style="text-align: center;">[From December 3, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"And I will pour out a spirit of compassion and supplication on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that when they look on the one whom they've pierced, they shall mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and weep bitterly over him, as one weeps over a firstborn."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Zechariah 12:10) </i></div><br />The book of Zechariah is an Old Testament book dealing with (among other topics) the inability of the leaders of Israel to properly care for their people.&nbsp; They've done a lousy job, says God.&nbsp; A terrible job!&nbsp; A reprehensible job!&nbsp; So God is going to allow panic, disunity, and destruction.&nbsp; In short, their world is about to be turned upside down.<br /><br />But that's not the end of the story.&nbsp; God will also strengthen the weak!&nbsp; God will embolden and empower the people to return to Him with their whole heart.&nbsp; They'll become an inspiration to others as they pass through the waters of distress &amp; chaos.<br /><br />And then we get to a particular verse.&nbsp; 12:10 notes the people will have compassion as they mourn "the one whom they've pierced."&nbsp; This was written a few hundred years (or more) before Jesus.&nbsp; And yet, he would be the one "pierced."&nbsp; Zechariah tells us the people will mourn for him like they weep over a firstborn child.&nbsp; That hearkens back to the Passover story... where God brought the Hebrews out of slavery and captivity after the 10th plague: the death of the firstborn children.&nbsp; As they heard the wailing of the Egyptian parents, the Israelites moved on to safety.&nbsp; To remember this properly, every year they were to observe Passover, sacrificing a lamb and sharing in a meal together.<br /><br />Now Jesus became that sacrificial lamb.&nbsp; Jesus was "the firstborn son" who was pierced - for our sins &amp; transgressions.&nbsp; And here, hundreds of years before Jesus, God is preparing the hearts of his people. What about us?&nbsp; Do our hearts break for Jesus, as if he were our own child, pierced unto death?&nbsp; Are we passionate about his life, death, and resurrection?&nbsp; Not just informed.&nbsp; Not just interested.&nbsp; Not just aware.&nbsp; But passionate?&nbsp; Truly passionate?!?<br /><br />PRAYER: You are my LIFE... my breath... my HOPE... my SALVATION, Oh God.&nbsp; Sometimes I take that too lightly... or for granted.&nbsp; Renew my passion &amp; commitment to you.&nbsp; Empower me to share that excitement with others!&nbsp; AMEN.Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-15632493810850633162015-12-04T07:38:00.001-10:002015-12-04T07:38:03.998-10:00Better than a Genie!<div style="text-align: center;">[From November 30, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"So I say to you, Ask and it will be given to you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you..."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Luke 11:9) </i></div><br />Most of us have no problem knowing what we want.&nbsp; From fantasizing what we'd ask for if we ever found a Genie in a bottle ("no wishing for more wishes!") to our "wish list" on Amazon or iTunes, we know what we want.&nbsp; Which might be why we have such a love/hate relationship with Luke 11:9.&nbsp; It's the "Ask/Seek/Knock" passage of Jesus.<br /><br />We want to believe that all we need to do is ASK God, and our requests ("prayers") will be granted.&nbsp; And yet, anyone who's ever prayed knows that's not always true.&nbsp; "Maybe you didn't ask for the right things" we posit... or "maybe it wasn't prayed 'in Jesus' Name'?"<br /><br />(NOTE: I've always believe the Seek/Find part of this verse, by the way.&nbsp; God doesn't 'hide' from us.&nbsp; We wander away from God.&nbsp; God spends our lifetime drawing close to us... wooing us... compelling us to turn to Him!&nbsp; Once we put the effort in, God is easily "found."&nbsp; So that part never bothered me.&nbsp; Now, back to the troubling part...)<br /><br />But I noticed something today in v.13.&nbsp; Two verses prior, Jesus reminds us that we, as human parents, give our children what they need (bread, fish, eggs), not surprisingly bad &amp; inappropriate gifts (like stones, snakes, or scorpions!).&nbsp; Then he concludes with: "...How much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him."<br /><br />So Jesus <u>doesn't</u> promise that if we just ask, God will give us whatever we want (or ask for).&nbsp; No, he promises we will <u>receive</u>.&nbsp; What?&nbsp; THE HOLY SPIRIT!&nbsp; God's self.&nbsp; The presence of God with us here and now.&nbsp; SO we may want peace, healing, a job, restoration of a relationship, financial security, better housing, recognition, etc.&nbsp; But God promises to give us Himself, if only we'll ask for help.&nbsp; Who knows, maybe the job, healing, restoration, or money we're asking for might actually be a stone, snake or scorpion to us!?!&nbsp; Our loving Father knows what we truly need... and that's His Spirit.<br /><br />So go ahead and ASK, SEEK, and KNOCK, friends!&nbsp; Be bold!&nbsp; No Shame!&nbsp; But don't be surprised if you don't get exactly what you ask for.&nbsp; You might just get something infinitely better - the presence of God Himself!!!&nbsp; AMEN.<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-86297676622277679942015-12-04T07:26:00.001-10:002015-12-04T07:26:55.761-10:00Bedrock<div style="text-align: center;">[From November 23, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"The devil said to him, 'If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread.'&nbsp; Jesus answered him, 'It is written, "One does not live by bread alone."'"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Luke 4:3-4) </i></div><br />The story of Jesus' wilderness temptation in Luke is a curious one. A lot of questions arise: why did the Holy Spirit lead him into the wilderness, if he was going to be tempted?&nbsp; Was Jesus <u>truly</u> tempted (like we humans are) or did he know all along he'd prevail?&nbsp; And was the 40 day period of fasting tied to the temptations (i.e. being spiritually strong and/or physically weak)?<br /><br />We could also examine each individual temptation to see what it was about each one that may have been actually tempting to Jesus (stones to bread, authority over kingdoms, angelic protection).&nbsp; That's a worthwhile exercise, but not where my heart connected to the text today.<br /><br /><b>What struck me was Jesus' use of Scripture.</b>&nbsp; Every time the devil challenged him to consider a temptation, Jesus responded from Scripture.&nbsp; "One does not live by bread alone" (Deuteronomy 8:3).&nbsp; "Worship the Lord and serve only him" (Deuteronomy 6:13).&nbsp; "Do not put the Lord to the test" (Deuteronomy 6:16).&nbsp; And after the second temptation, even the devil started quoting scripture (Psalm 91:11-12).&nbsp; But Jesus was so grounded in God's written word, he was able to resist.<br /><br />Temptations will <u>always</u> be a part of life.&nbsp; No one is exempt form them, not even Jesus!&nbsp; It's not about "being a good person" or always choosing to "do the right thing," or even "having enough self-control."&nbsp; Those are all fine characteristics, of course.&nbsp; Jesus had those too.&nbsp; But what I learn from this story is that Jesus' grounded in Scripture was his bedrock.&nbsp; That gave him the framework to make decisions for himself and his life.<br /><br />I've said over and over how important Scripture Journaling has been to my life this past decade or so.&nbsp; I believe it!&nbsp; The challenge, of course, is putting the time into reading, studying, and reflecting on it... so that it can become MY BEDROCK and foundation, just like it was for Jesus!<br /><br />PRAYER: Lord, may Your Words of LIFE in Scripture be my anchor.&nbsp; May I have the discipline to spend time with you on a regular basis. I want to walk in your truth every day.<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-78020620999130463022015-12-04T07:18:00.003-10:002015-12-04T07:18:54.802-10:00A Response<div style="text-align: center;">[From November 19, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Then the angel showed me the river of water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city.&nbsp; On either side of the river is the tree of life with its 12 kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Revelation 22:1-2) </i></div><br />It's been a rough week for the world.&nbsp; The bombing of Muslims by ISIS in Lebanon last Thursday... the Paris ISIS attacks on Friday... Retaliation attacks &amp; air strikes... another Boko Harum massacre in Nigeria... We are a world torn apart by violence, war &amp; hatred.<br /><br />Some people co-opt elements of their faith to promote hatred &amp; violence.&nbsp; I pray that those in the Christian church are not in that camp.&nbsp; The end of Revelation (the very last book in the Bible) is all about peace, healing, and life.&nbsp; Not death &amp; destruction.<br /><br />There's a RIVER OF LIFE, flowing through the heavenly city.&nbsp; There's a TREE OF LIFE in the middle of the city... and the leaves of the tree are for the HEALING of the nations.&nbsp; Healing, life, grace... that's what's we're about.&nbsp; In the aftermath of the ISIS attacks, may we continue to sow peace, hope and love.&nbsp; For that is of God!Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-13388310662231546212015-12-04T07:14:00.001-10:002015-12-04T07:14:11.271-10:00More Valuable than Gold<div style="text-align: center;">[From November 18, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"I saw the temple in the city, for its temple is the LORD God the Almighty and the Lamb."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Revelation 21:22) </i></div><br />One of the characteristics that people think of when they think of heaven (besides fat little angels playing harps on clouds) is <b>streets of gold</b>.&nbsp; That's actually biblical (Rev.21:21), as John had a vision of heaven.&nbsp; But more than that, or the pearls at every one of the 12 gates (which is also biblical - same verse)... the part that most intrigued me was v.22, which says heaven has no central worship space.&nbsp; No temple.&nbsp; No church.&nbsp; No gathering space for people to come together to connect to God.<br /><br />At first this is quite curious.&nbsp; We Christians have been taught to make worship (at a church) a priority.&nbsp; We are called to gather together in community to be the body of Christ.&nbsp; But John's vision of heaven has no temple - no central worship space where we can be "the body."&nbsp; Why?&nbsp; "For its temple is the LORD GOD the Almighty and the Lamb."&nbsp; There is no need to come to one place, for God is there!&nbsp; Everywhere!&nbsp; God's presence fills "the new Jerusalem."<br /><br />Imagine a time when the presence of God is so powerful that you feel and experience it all the time.&nbsp; No hatred.&nbsp; No violence.&nbsp; No pain.&nbsp; Just peace, grace, hope, joy, and love forever.&nbsp; THAT'S something even more valuable than streets of gold!&nbsp; May we work towards that being a reality.&nbsp; AMEN.Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-76199643787869963442015-11-23T05:45:00.000-10:002015-11-23T05:45:03.790-10:00James Taylor & Jesus<div style="text-align: center;">[From November 17, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Psalm 145:18) </i></div><br />James Taylor sang a song titled, 'You've Got A Friend."&nbsp; The chorus says:<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You just call on my&nbsp;</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And you know wherever I am</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>I'll come running</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>To see you again</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>All you have to do is call</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>And I'll be there</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You've got a friend</i></div><div style="text-align: left;">We long for friends like that. For true intimacy and deep love and commitment.&nbsp; If we're fortunate, our spouses fill this role.&nbsp; So do a few close friends we acquire over our lifetime.&nbsp; But God also makes this promise to us.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">God is near to us all the time.&nbsp; The God who created us... gifted us... redeemed us... and calls us to become more and more like Him.&nbsp; He longs to be in intimate relationship with us - if only we'll seek Him.&nbsp; He'll be a real and present help to "all who call on him in truth."&nbsp; The challenge (at least for me) is to do this on a daily basis - not just when I think I'm in need.&nbsp; I'm actually in need of God EVERY day... if the truth be told.&nbsp; So come, Lord, Jesus.&nbsp; Be near me!</div>Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-91856290394635943912015-11-23T05:40:00.001-10:002015-11-23T05:40:13.379-10:00Heart Replacement Surgery<div style="text-align: center;">[From Nov. 16, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness, and from all your idols I will cleanse you.&nbsp; A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Ezekiel 36:35-26) </i></div><br />After judgment &amp; exile, the people of Israel (&amp; Judah) will be restored by the LORD.&nbsp; Ezekiel chapters 36-37 are filled with wonderful images of restoration.&nbsp; It begins with a baptism of sorts: a cleansing by water of all the 'uncleanness of idols.'&nbsp; The people, for centuries, looked to things other than God for sustenance and inspiration.&nbsp; That will change.<br /><br />God notes that it's a HEART problem.&nbsp; The people have a "heart of stone."&nbsp; We think of that in terms of being uncaring &amp; unfeeling.&nbsp; God sees it as a heart that doesn't seek him.&nbsp; It's kind of interesting to think that means it's incapable of functioning the way a heart should.&nbsp; A stone heart is no good.&nbsp; But God will replace it with "a heart of flesh."&nbsp; A heart that works!&nbsp; It pumps and feels and fills the rest of the body with life.&nbsp; WHY?&nbsp; Because it's connected to the LORD and seeks to follow his ways.&nbsp;<br /><br />We have "hearts of flesh" when we read God's word.&nbsp; When we align our lives (and actions) with God's will for us.&nbsp; I want a heart of flesh, not stone.&nbsp; I want to truly live... and to empower my congregation to do the same.<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-50949520431729648952015-11-06T09:41:00.000-10:002015-11-06T09:41:14.008-10:00Destruction.<div style="text-align: center;"><i>"And the 5th angel blew his trumpet, and I saw a star that had fallen from heaven to earth, and he was given the key to the shaft of the bottomless pit... Then from the smoke came locusts on the earth... they have as King over them the angel of the bottomless pit; his name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in Greek he's called Apollyon."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Revelation 9:1,3,11)</i></div><br />In Revelation 9, some kind of heavenly being ('star') falls from heaven to earth and unleashes havoc in the form of mutant locusts.&nbsp; Any farmer knows what normal locusts can do to crops.&nbsp; These, however, are diabolical.&nbsp; Chaos &amp; damage ensue.&nbsp; The author tells us the name of their king: Abaddon (which means "Destruction" in Hebrew) or Apollyon (which means "Destroyer" in Greek).<br /><br />We don't know if this "fallen star" is Satan, or some other malevolent being.&nbsp; What captured my interest this morning was the NAMES of the king: Destroyer/Destruction.&nbsp; And the locusts bear witness to this truth.&nbsp; I started thinking about the difference between that name and the "name above all names."&nbsp; Jesus brings life, hope, grace &amp; restoration.&nbsp; This enemy simply brings destruction.<br /><br />Look around.&nbsp; Where do we see destruction?&nbsp; Violence &amp; wars.&nbsp; Hatred &amp; intolerance.&nbsp; Homelessness.&nbsp; Broken marriages &amp; families.&nbsp; Unforgivenss.&nbsp; Bitterness.&nbsp; Abuse.&nbsp; Slavery &amp; trafficking.&nbsp; Destruction is everywhere.&nbsp; BUT THAT IS NOT OF GOD!&nbsp; I want to be an agent of life &amp; life, O Lord.&nbsp; Help me to walk in your ways.&nbsp; Bring healing to those who have experienced destruction in their lives.&nbsp; AMEN.Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6923783134297120582.post-44313497949860844272015-11-06T09:22:00.000-10:002015-11-06T09:22:16.724-10:00"We're not worthy!"<div style="text-align: center;">[From November 2, 2015]</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"...And I saw a mighty angel proclaiming with a loud voice, 'Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?'&nbsp; And no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or look into it.&nbsp; And I began to weep bitterly...'"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>(Revelation 5:2-4a) </i></div><br />Dana Carvey &amp; Mike Meyers' "WAYNE'S WORLD" creation on Saturday Night Live used to have a bit that became a cultural expression.&nbsp; Whenever they'd interview a famous celebrity (usually a musician), they'd extend their arms and bow down in reverence saying, "We're not worthy!&nbsp; We're not worthy!"&nbsp; People all across the US incorporated it into our regular vernacular.<br /><br />That's what John felt like in Revelation 5.&nbsp; A great scroll is available, but no one (in heaven or earth) is worthy to open it and read it.&nbsp; No one, that is, except Jesus (the "Lion of the Tribe of Judah" and "the root of David").&nbsp; He is the Lamb who was slain for the salvation of the world (all these expressions are used in chapter 5).<br /><br />I wonder if we've lost this sense of God's holiness and reverence?&nbsp; We pride ourselves in our accomplishments and endeavors.&nbsp; But really, none of us are worthy on our own.&nbsp; We can do great things, of course.&nbsp; But salvation can only come as GRACE - as a gift.&nbsp; We can't earn it.&nbsp; So why not, instead, bow down with reverence &amp; humility before the King?&nbsp; (Works for me!)<br /><br />Pastor Jim Whitehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11532880176253979304noreply@blogger.com0